Chimichurri

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Here is a summary of the YouTube video "Every summer I get obsessed with Chimichurri for a couple of weeks" (youtu.be/HXesSmxVNMs), including a recipe overview1:

Video Summary

The video explains the appeal and versatility of chimichurri, a vibrant Argentinian sauce, especially during summer when it pairs perfectly with grilled meats. The creator breaks down chimichurri into its essential components—herbs, fat (oil), acid (vinegar or citrus), and aromatics/spices—and demonstrates how understanding this "blueprint" allows for endless variations. The video showcases a traditional chimichurri recipe as well as a creative cilantro-habanero variation.

Key points include:

Chimichurri is a herby, tangy sauce that enhances grilled foods.
The basic structure: lots of fresh herbs (traditionally parsley), olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and salt.
Customization: You can swap herbs (like using cilantro instead of parsley), change the acid (lime juice instead of vinegar), or increase aromatics (bell pepper, shallot, habanero).
Texture: You can blend chimichurri for a smooth sauce or hand-chop for a chunkier, more textured result.
Versatility: Use chimichurri not just on grilled meats but also in bowls with grains, vegetables, and cheese for a quick, delicious meal.
Recipe ideas: The video features a grilled chimichurri bowl with farro, grilled chicken, vegetables, feta, and pickled onions, all tossed with the cilantro-habanero chimichurri.

Recipe: Traditional Chimichurri (Based on Video)

Ingredients:

A large handful of fresh parsley (about 1 cup, packed)
1/2 cup olive oil
2–3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Chop the parsley very finely (or blend if you prefer a smoother sauce).
Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano to the parsley.
Stir in olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined.
Season with salt to taste.
Let sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Optional: For a "Cilantro Habanero Chimichurri," substitute cilantro for parsley, lime juice for red wine vinegar, and add 1/2 bell pepper, 1/4 shallot, and 1/2 habanero (use caution with habanero, adjust to heat preference)1.

Summary: The video highlights chimichurri as a flexible, flavorful sauce that’s easy to make and perfect for summer grilling. By mixing and matching herbs, acids, and aromatics, you can create countless versions to suit your taste1.

Video Summary

Recipe: Traditional Chimichurri (Based on Video)

Citations: